New Parliament Building Inauguration LIVE: Democracy is our 'Sanskaar', idea, tradition, says PM Modi

1 min read .  Updated: 28 May 2023, 03:46 PM IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in the Lok Sabha chamber, at new Parliament building. (PTI)The official commencement of the new Parliament building in India was initiated today with an inauguration ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, arrived at the newly constructed Parliament building and actively participated in the ritualistic puja and havan. Notably, PM Modi placed the historic 'Sengol' near the chair of the Lok Sabha Speaker. The morning session is scheduled to conclude around 9:30 am, following which the second segment of the ceremony is anticipated to commence at noon. This subsequent phase will feature the rendition of the national anthem within the Lok Sabha chamber, graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Prime Minister Modi.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson calls new Parliament ‘shraddha sthal’

On Sunday, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson Harivansh expressed his profound admiration for the inauguration of the new Parliament building, emphasizing its historical significance and indelible nature. He emphasized that the building transcends its physical attributes as a mere construction of bricks and mortar, emphasizing its pivotal role in fulfilling the collective hopes and aspirations of the Indian populace.

Extending a warm welcome to all those in attendance at the new Parliament House, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson Harivansh referred to it as a "shraddha sthal" or a sacred place of worship for Indian democracy. In his address, he expressed his optimistic outlook, envisioning the new parliamentary premises as a witness to numerous significant and groundbreaking decisions that will shape the nation's future.

Cong's Adhir Chowdhury boycotts event despite receiving invitation 

Despite receiving an invitation from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Indian Government, Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury chose to boycott Sunday's inaugural event of the new Parliament building.

 

According to sources familiar with the matter, Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury made the decision to abstain from today's ceremony, even though he was invited to join the Prime Minister as a guest. Considering his role as the leader of the largest Opposition party in Parliament, Chowdhury chose not to attend, as reported by ANI.

The Congress party was one of the 21 political parties that had previously declared their decision to boycott the inauguration ceremony. They accused the government of "sidelining" President Droupadi Murmu, which led to their collective decision to refrain from participating in the event.